Colorado Association of Latino/a Administrators and Superintendents LA LUZ DE LIDERAZGO - A MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHT August 2024
Welcome to the CO ALAS Membership Spotlight. Each month we introduce you to one of our many CO-ALAS members. Let’s see what they are doing and what’s on their mind!
This month we are featuring Dr. Margarita Tovar Rosales, Chief Talent Officer, Colorado Department of Education Dr. Tovar Rosales shares her professional career and current bio below. You can read the diverse experiences that have led to her various leadership roles. One of our shining stars!
Career Highlights & Education
Hola, CO-ALAS! My name is Margarita, and I am serving as the Chief Talent Officer of the Colorado Department of Education, overseeing educator preparation, educator development, educator effectiveness, licensing, enforcement, early childhood workforce development, and human resources teams.
Most recently, I served as Chief Talent Officer in the Summit School District where I led the transformation of the human resources team and served as an integral member of the superintendent’s cabinet. Based on my lived and professional experiences, I work with urgency and purpose to address educational barriers that deter students and communities from reaching their highest potential and aspirations.
I began my career as a teacher’s aide at Farias Early Childhood Center in the Houston Independent School District and has worked in several school and district-based roles, including as a bilingual teacher, dual language coordinator, instructional specialist, assistant principal, and principal. She also served as a school improvement liaison between the Corsicana Independent School District and the Texas Education Agency overseeing the turnaround of improvement required campuses.
I am a proud first-generation graduate of the Houston Community College where I earned an associate's degree, the University of Houston-Downtown where I earned a bachelor degree, and the Houston Baptist University where I obtained my master’s degree. I also recently celebrated earning my doctoral degree from the University of Houston. My dissertation focused on highlighting the testimonios of Latina Superintendents and the challenges that Latinas face as they navigate the leadership labyrinth.
What is exciting about my job?
In my role with the Colorado Department of Education I find an alignment of purpose, passion, and profession. I am thrilled about the ability to impact the recruitment, retention, and development efforts of the educators in our state. Additionally, I get the unique opportunity to ensure our educational doors are opened for all, by removing barriers into the teaching profession and elevating the career. Being an educator has provided me with immense opportunities including financial mobility, access to health care, and a fulfilled mission-driven life. I know what it has done for me and my family and I take our role in opening doors and telling folks, “Welcome, bienvenidos, you belong here!”
Words from a consejero/a
The words I live by in my work are from Richard Carranza, “Don’t be too afraid to do your job that you don’t do your job.” Lead with courage! Con ganas!
Advice you would give a new superintendent or school leader?
To new Superintendents: Thank you for being in the arena; we are here to support you.
To new Leaders: Remain grateful about the responsibility and opportunity that is in your hands, with that, please invest in yourself so your flame doesn’t burn quickly. We are here to support you.
If you catch me outside the office, you'll find...
Me at one of the following:
Horseback riding
Book store
Dancing folklorico
Mexican restaurant; send me recommendations! :)
How does CO-ALAS add value?
This organization has added immense value to myself as a person and as a leader, especially as a Latina in Colorado. I moved to Colorado on my own, without friends or family, only my Dog Blue :), that being said, in times where I have felt alone it has been CO-ALAS friends who have supported me and provided me with a listening heart. Gracias!